Malaysia vs South Africa
South Africa is about 25% pricier than Malaysia overall, with a price level of 41.2 versus 31.1 (US = 100). The gap is widest in housing & utilities and narrowest in communication. On quality of life, Malaysia scores higher (92 vs 53 of 100).
Metric Malaysia South Africa
Price level (US=100) 31.1 41.2
GDP / capita (PPP) $38,779 $15,456
GNI / capita (PPP) $37,450 $15,150
Inflation (YoY) 1.8% 4.4%
What's different, by category
Price levels by category (world average = 100). The cheaper of the two is highlighted.
Category Malaysia South Africa
Housing & utilities 34 76
Food 82 88
Transport 63 99
Restaurants & hotels 30 60
Health 44 76
Communication 81 76
Category price levels: World Bank ICP 2021 (world average = 100).
Quality of life
Metric Malaysia South Africa
Quality-of-life score 92/100 53/100
Life expectancy 77 yrs 66 yrs
Safety · homicide /100k 0.7 43.7
Internet users 98% 78%
Frequently asked
Is Malaysia more expensive than South Africa?
South Africa is more expensive: about 25% pricier than Malaysia overall.
What would a $100,000 lifestyle cost in South Africa?
Living the way $100,000 buys in Malaysia would cost roughly $132,500 in South Africa, based on overall price levels.
Which has the better quality of life, Malaysia or South Africa?
Malaysia scores higher, 92 vs 53 out of 100.
Salary check
A $100,000 lifestyle in Malaysia would cost about
$132,500
in South Africa. Run your real salary →